Controversy erupts on 'India's Got Latent' over Insensitive joke on Deepika Padukone's battle with depression

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): A recent episode of Samay Raina's YouTube show India's Got Latent has sparked controversy after a contestant made a joke that seemed to mock Deepika Padukone's struggles with depression. Known for its edgy and often controversial humor, the show faced backlash when contestant Bunty Banerjee made a remark about Padukone's recent motherhood, saying, "Deepika Padukone also became a mother recently, right? Great, now she knows what depression really looks like." This comment was followed by laughter from Raina and fellow judges Tanmay Bhat, Raghu Ram, and Dr. Sid Warrier.

In the clip, the panel's reaction is captured, with Tanmay initially hiding his face in his hands before joining in the laughter. Banerjee further stated, "I am not trying to insult breakup-wala depression," then added, “I am.” This casual approach to such a serious issue has drawn significant criticism from fans and mental health advocates. Deepika Padukone, a vocal advocate for mental health awareness, has publicly shared her own experience with depression to help reduce stigma. The mockery of her personal journey has prompted many viewers to express their anger on social media, calling attention to the importance of addressing mental health issues with care and respect.

This incident underscores the ongoing discussions about mental health in India and highlights the responsibility of public figures and entertainers to approach sensitive topics with thoughtfulness. The backlash serves as a reminder of the continued stigma surrounding mental health and the need for more awareness and understanding in public conversations. Fans are now demanding accountability from Raina and his team for crossing a line that trivializes serious mental health challenges.